OPERATION MANAGEMENT

Question :
Why 6 Sigma Standard allow 3,4 DPMO instead of 2 PPB?

Six Sigma is a method of measuring process capability and determining/predicting defects in

process/products/services. Six Sigma is used by Motorola to track and compare the product
performance to fulfill with customer specification.
Six Sigma will generate about 2 defect parts per billion opportunities (ppb) and 3,4 defect parts
per million (ppm) or 3,4 defects per million opportunities (dpmo). The difference in defects value
from 2 ppb become 3,4 dpmo occurs because there is an average shift of 1,5 sigma which is
determined by Motorola’s process and data collection over the years.
1,5 sigma shift would increase the defect rate from 1,5 sigma on left side of the mean ( ) and on
right side of the mean ( ) as shown the table below :

x ± 1,5σ x ± 1,5σ
Specification
LSL USL LSL USL LSL USL
Limits
-6 6 -4,5 7,5 -7,5 4,5
Probability 9,87E-10 9,87E-10 3,40E-06 3,19E-14 3,19E-14 3,40E-06
1,97E-09 3,40E-06 3,40E-06
Defect 1,97 per billion 3,40 per million 3,40 per million

Then, the Reason why 6 Sigma Standard allow 3,4 DPMO instead of 2 PPB because :
1,5 sigma shift is acceptable compensation if there is a out of control process for example
machine problem or change of equipment or operator. The defect result 3,4 dpmo which is
almost zero and still considered a positive work or still fit with customer specification.